The immune system is a complex network of interacting cells, cell products, and cell-forming tissues that protects the body from pathogens and other foreign substances, destroys infected and malignant cells, and removes cellular debris. If you have weakened immune functions you will be much more likely to catch small illnesses such as the common cold and flu, as well as being less effective at warding off more serious diseases such as cancer.

What are some of the ways you can help your body boost it's immune functions? Probably one of the biggest factors is proper nutrition. There are even certain foods that are known to act as immune boosters. Moderate exercise can be another great way to bolster your immune health. Finally, if you are really concerned, you can take vitamins or supplements which can improve it even further.

1. If you are concerned with immune system health,  make sure to have a proper diet and exercise regiment. Eating a healthy variety of fruits and vegetables will help you obtain all the nutrients you need and keep you from catching a cold.

2. Staying active will give you better overall health which, in turn, strengthens your immune system. Don't overdo it with exercise, however, as over-stressing your body can reduce the effectiveness of your immune system.

3. Antioxidants like vitamin C & E offer direct protection for your immune system. Taking a good multi-vitamin can keep your body in general good health, which in turn boosts all aspects of immune defense. If you’re doing all of the above and would still like to strengthen your immune system more, try taking one of many immune boosting products on the market that improve your body’s defense and general health. Many of these products are taken daily and will save you when cold and flu season comes around.

Another great way to keep from getting sick as to practice proper prevention methods such as washing your hands frequently and avoiding people who are infected. When you wash your hands, but sure to leave the soap on for 20 seconds or more before you wash it off. It takes time for the antibacterial to kill germs.

It is also very important to give your body the rest it needs. If possible, try to get 8 hours of sleep a night. Developing a consistent sleep pattern for yourself will help keep your immune system as efficient and healthy as possible. Our bodies aren't meant to function off of little to no sleep, and even naps during the day don't do our bodies nearly the good as a restful night's sleep.